Green Cappadocia Underground City and Valleys Tour. Lunch incl.

Planning to explore Cappadocia but don’t have days to spare? This Green Cappadocia tour promises a solid 8-hour journey through some of the region’s most captivating sights—all from Goreme, with lunch included. It’s a good option if you’re after a balance between natural beauty, history, and manageable pacing.

What really caught our eye? First, how well-organized it seems – with hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and a small-group size limited to 15, it keeps things personal and avoids the crowds. Second, the mix of sites: you get a peek into the underground city, enjoy scenic valleys, and stroll through ancient monasteries—all in one day.

A potential consideration? The longer walks and climbs at some stops, like the underground city and Selime Monastery, might be tiring for some travelers. Make sure you’re comfortable with a fair amount of walking and uneven terrain.

This tour is perfect for those with limited time in Cappadocia who want a well-rounded glimpse of its landscapes and history without feeling rushed. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate guides with good knowledge and want everything taken care of, from transport to meals.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering underground cities, valleys, and historic sites in a single day
• Small-group setting for more personalized attention and fewer crowds
• Included lunch and transportation make it a convenient, hassle-free option
• Good value for the price considering entrance fees, lunch, and expert guide
• Ideal for time-constrained travelers wanting a balanced overview of Cappadocia
• Be prepared for walking and some climbing at certain sites

An Honest Look at the Tour

If you’re trying to get a good sense of Cappadocia’s best without dedicating multiple days or dealing with multiple bookings, this tour might be just what you’re after. It’s designed to hit many of the top spots—some of which are truly remarkable—and to do so in a time-efficient way.

The itinerary is well-structured: starting from Goreme, you’ll head toward Derinkuyu Underground City, then continue to the scenic Ihlara Valley, with stops at notable sites like Selime Monastery and Pigeon Valley. The highlight for many is the underground city; as one reviewer put it, “the underground city was incredible,” which is a sentiment we often hear about Cappadocia’s subterranean marvels.

The Underground City Experience

Derinkuyu Underground City is the first major stop. It’s the largest excavated underground city in Turkey, and you’ll walk through tunnels, see ancient churches, kitchens, and water wells. The guided tour gives you context—imagine a subterranean city supporting over 20,000 people in the past. Several reviews mention how impressive and atmospheric it feels, though some warn about the narrow spaces and steps—so if you’re claustrophobic or have mobility issues, keep that in mind.

Exploring the Valleys and Villages

Next, the tour takes you to Ihlara Valley, where you’ll hike roughly 2.5 miles (4 km) along the river. This stretch is lush and scenic, carved by volcanic activity eons ago. The hike is moderate but requires decent shoes, as some reviews mention uneven, sometimes slippery terrain. You’ll get a chance to stop at Belisirma village for a Turkish lunch—which most guests find tasty and satisfying. One review notes, “the food was good and tasty,” and another mentions it as a relaxing break amid sightseeing.

After lunch, the tour visits Selime Monastery, an enormous rock-cut complex with churches, stables, and a monastery built in the 8th or 9th century. It’s a highlight for history buffs and those who love exploring ancient structures. The timing here is about 45 minutes, just enough to see the main features and take photos.

The Scenic and Cultural Highlights

In the afternoon, you’ll check out Pigeon Valley for panoramic views and learn about its unique name—many reviews mention how special the scenery is. The final stop is a lookout point in Goreme, where you can soak in Cappadocia’s surreal lunar landscape and dramatic rock formations.

Throughout the day, your guide provides insights, making the experience more meaningful. Many reviews praise guides like Emre, Guray, and Kazim for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer described the guide as “very kind and informative,” and another said, “Kazim was fluent in Chinese and very engaging.”

Comfort and Convenience

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a real convenience. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives comfortable, and the small group size keeps things intimate and manageable. Most mention how smoothly everything went—timing was generally good, and the stops were well-paced.

Value for Money

Considering the entrance fees to major sites (like Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley), plus lunch, the price of around $40.55 per person feels reasonable. Several reviews mention that it’s a good value, especially for travelers who want a lot packed into one day without extra hassle.

However, a few mention the optional shopping stops—like the Onyx shop or gift shops—which might be a bit commercialized, but that’s typical for tours in this area. Also, some guests reported feeling pressured by the tour company to leave a high review, which is worth noting but doesn’t reflect the core experience itself.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a well-organized, informative, and scenic day in Cappadocia. It suits travelers who appreciate guided commentary and want everything handled for them—transport, entrance fees, and meals.

If you’re okay with a moderate to energetic pace and don’t mind walking or climbing, you’ll find this a very worthwhile outing. It’s also good for those who want a broad overview without the need for multiple separate bookings.

On the flip side, if you prefer a very relaxed, slow pace, or have specific mobility concerns, some of the walking and stairs might be a challenge. Also, if you’re not a fan of touristy stops or shopping, keep in mind this tour does include visits to gift shops and markets.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Green Cappadocia Underground City and Valleys Tour offers a balanced, in-depth glimpse into the region’s most iconic sights. Its combination of natural beauty, historic sites, and practical comforts makes it one of the best options for travelers who want a full but manageable experience. The small-group format enhances the overall vibe, creating a friendly and flexible atmosphere.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, stunning viewpoints, and the convenience of having everything organized for you. The included lunch is a nice touch, letting you refuel without extra planning. It’s a solid choice for anyone short on time but eager to soak in Cappadocia’s wonders, especially those who value well-executed tours with honest reviews backing them.

If you’re after a day of spectacular scenery, cultural insights, and seamless logistics, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for some walking and a few narrow spaces, and you’ll come away with a memorable experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Goreme hotels, making it very convenient to start and end your day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, covering several major sights in south Cappadocia.

What sites are included?
You’ll visit Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, Pigeon Valley, and enjoy panoramic views at Goreme.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is included, and most reviews find it tasty and satisfying.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 people, ensuring a more personal experience and less crowding.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees to major sites are included if you select the options, but drinks are not included. Some stops at shops are optional.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The tour involves walking and some climbing, so it’s better suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity, rather than very young children or those with mobility issues.

If you’re looking for a full day of exploring Cappadocia’s highlights with ease and expert guidance, this tour offers a very practical and engaging way to do it.